Swiss Casino Licenses: A Look Into Regulation

Operating a casino in Switzerland is a highly regulated endeavor. To ensure transparency, player protection, and state benefit from gambling revenues, all casino operators are required to obtain a license from the Swiss federal government.

On November 29, 2023, the Federal Council announced its decision regarding the allocation of casino licenses for the upcoming two-decade period, covering 2025 through 2044. This long-term planning provides stability and regulatory clarity for operators and the public alike.

🎲 19 Licensed Casinos Across Switzerland

As of the new licensing cycle, 19 casinos have received authorization to operate in Switzerland. These establishments are divided into two categories based on the type of license issued:

• 8 casinos hold an A license (Casino A)
• 11 casinos hold a B license (Casino B)

The classification has direct implications for the scale and scope of each casino's operations, particularly concerning stakes, gaming offerings, and taxation.

🏷️ A-License vs. B-License Casinos: What’s the Difference?

🎰 Scope of Games and Stakes

One of the most significant differences between A and B licenses lies in the maximum allowable stakes for automated (machine-based) gambling:

• For both license types, the maximum stake per game is capped at CHF 25 for automated money games.

B-license casinos have certain limitations compared to A-license casinos, and their game offerings are generally smaller in scale, focusing on accessible, responsible gaming options.

💰 Taxation Framework

Taxation is another area where the two licenses diverge:

• B-license casinos may be subject to an additional cantonal tax on their gross gaming revenue (except for online games).
• This cantonal tax cannot exceed 40% of the total casino tax owed to the federal government.
• If a cantonal tax is levied, the federal tax is reduced by the equivalent amount.

⚖️ Balancing Entertainment and Responsibility

Switzerland's licensing and regulatory framework reflects a deliberate effort to balance economic opportunity with social responsibility. The licensing process emphasizes transparency, prevention of gambling addiction, and the channeling of profits toward public welfare.

With the new licenses now in place until 2044, Switzerland aims to maintain a safe and sustainable gaming environment while offering high-quality entertainment options across the country.